Weatherby’s Spikemoss: A Rare Southwestern Treasure for Specialized Gardens
If you’ve ever wondered about those tiny, moss-like plants tucked into rocky crevices in the American Southwest, you might have encountered Weatherby’s spikemoss (Selaginella weatherbiana). This little-known native plant is quite the botanical curiosity – it’s not actually a moss at all, but rather a member of an ancient plant family called spikemosses that has been around since before the dinosaurs!
What Exactly Is Weatherby’s Spikemoss?
Despite its common name, Weatherby’s spikemoss isn’t a true moss. It’s what botanists call a lycophyte or club moss – an ancient type of vascular plant that reproduces through spores rather than seeds or flowers. These fascinating plants have tiny, scale-like leaves that give them their moss-like appearance, but unlike true mosses, they have a proper vascular system to transport water and nutrients throughout the plant.
This perennial plant forms small, delicate mats or cushions that hug rocky surfaces and crevices. Its intricate branching pattern and tiny leaves create a beautiful, almost lace-like texture that’s quite striking when you take a closer look.
Where Does It Call Home?
Weatherby’s spikemoss is a true southwestern native, found naturally only in Colorado and New Mexico. This limited geographic distribution makes it a special plant indeed – you won’t find it growing wild anywhere else in the world!
A Word About Rarity
Here’s something important to know: Weatherby’s spikemoss has a conservation status of S3S4, which means it’s considered uncommon to somewhat common within its limited range, but still warrants attention. If you’re interested in growing this plant, it’s crucial to source it responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries rather than collecting it from the wild.
Is It Right for Your Garden?
Weatherby’s spikemoss isn’t your typical garden plant, and that’s perfectly fine! It’s ideal for gardeners who:
- Love unique, conversation-starting plants
- Are creating specialized rock gardens or crevice gardens
- Want to support native plant conservation
- Enjoy the challenge of growing unusual species
- Live in areas with similar climate conditions to its native range
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re up for the challenge of growing this rare beauty, you’ll need to recreate its natural rocky habitat. Weatherby’s spikemoss thrives in:
- Well-draining, rocky or sandy soils
- Partial shade to filtered sunlight
- Low to moderate water conditions (it’s quite drought-tolerant once established)
- USDA hardiness zones 4-7
- Good air circulation
The key to success is mimicking the plant’s natural environment – think rocky crevices, excellent drainage, and protection from intense afternoon sun. A rock garden with some morning sun and afternoon shade would be ideal.
Benefits to Your Garden Ecosystem
While Weatherby’s spikemoss doesn’t produce flowers to attract pollinators, it does offer some unique benefits to your garden ecosystem. Its dense, mat-like growth can help prevent soil erosion on slopes, and it provides interesting textural contrast in rock gardens. Plus, you’ll be supporting the conservation of a rare native species – something to feel good about!
How to Identify Weatherby’s Spikemoss
Look for these key characteristics:
- Small, scale-like leaves arranged in overlapping patterns
- Low-growing, mat-forming habit
- Delicate, branching stems
- Preference for rocky habitats and crevices
- Tiny spore-bearing structures (sporangia) at branch tips during reproductive season
The Bottom Line
Weatherby’s spikemoss is definitely a plant for the specialized gardener rather than the casual weekend warrior. Its rarity, specific growing requirements, and unique appearance make it a fascinating addition to the right garden setting. If you’re passionate about native plants, conservation, and enjoy the challenge of growing something truly special, this little spikemoss might just be your next gardening adventure.
Just remember – always source plants responsibly, be patient with the growing process, and appreciate the ancient lineage you’re helping to preserve in your own backyard!
